Working at height blog

In part 1 of our 2 part LOLER FAQ blog series we covered the equipment covered by LOLER, what is a thorough examination, and what is covered by a thorough examination.

In part two we will answer the following questions:

1. Who is responsible for carrying out LOLER thorough examinations?

2. Who is a LOLER competent person

3. How often LOLER thorough examinations should be carried out?

Who is responsible for carrying out LOLER thorough examinations?

It is important that thorough examinations are only undertaken by a ‘competent person’ which we will define further in answer to the next question.

Who is a LOLER competent person?

A ‘competent person’ is somebody who is deemed to be suitably competent to undertake the work. They utilise their theoretical and practical knowledge to carry out the thorough examinations. In fact the LOLER Approved Code and Practice and Guidance is clear on this matter, stating:

‘You should ensure that the person carrying out a thorough examination has such appropriate practical and theoretical knowledge and experience of the lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined as will enable them to detect defects or weaknesses and to assess their importance in relation to the safety and continued use of the lifting equipment.’

Some organisations will have somebody suitable to carry out the thorough examinations in-house. Whilst other organisations will need to employ somebody externally. The key thing to note is the individual must not only be competent, but must also be seen as impartial

How often should LOLER thorough examinations be carried out?

Workplaces are required to arrange periodic examinations of all lifting equipment and accessories that are covered by LOLER. These thorough examinations must be conducted during the lifetime of the equipment. The frequency of the thorough examinations is dependent on a number of factors such as the type of equipment and its purpose.

Examinations include:

1. Before an equipment’s first use unless it has an EC declaration of conformity that is less than a year old. When the equipment is assembled on site, a competent person is required to check and confirm it has been done correctly and safely.

2. When equipment is moved to a new site and has to be reassembled it must be re-examined before it is used.

In terms of periodic thorough examinations, they should be conducted:

Every six months for equipment and accessories used to lift people.

Every six months for lifting accessories, and every 12 months for general lifting equipment.

For any lifting equipment that is exposed to conditions that might cause more expedient or notable deterioration which could undermine safety thorough examinations should be undertaken more regularly. This includes when significant modifications and replacements are made that would justify a need for a thorough examination.

In Summary

It is important to note that thorough examinations are not a replacement for pre-use inspections or general maintenance which should be carried out as a matter of course. Within this article we have explained that all thorough examinations must be carried out by an unbiased competent person. The regularity of those thorough examinations are dependent on a number of factors which we outlined in detail.